Josselyn Nielsen, a U.S. Navy veteran, has been called to head up JustServe for the Chattanooga Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. JustServe helps link organizations and volunteers for purposes of doing good. The free app and website at JustServe.org are free for everyone – no matter religious affiliation – and perfect for Tennessee, a state of Volunteers.
“As stated in previous releases, JustServe.org is being used by nonprofit and government agencies across America. Organizations are posting their needs. And volunteers are using the site to search for places to serve in their communities. We invite everyone to participate,” Mrs.
Nielsen said. “Together, we can elevate life and lift each other.”
Mrs. Nielsen and her husband, Tim, and their three children – Sydney, Alejandro and Victoria – settled in Chattanooga about four years ago. “Southern hospitality and the natural beauty of the area won us over. We love being part of this community and I am thankful to be called as the JustServe specialist for this location. Service is a part of who we are.”
Mrs. Nielsen immigrated to New York from Honduras when she was 8 years old. At age 19, she had a strong desire to give back to the country that gave her mother and her the opportunity for a better life. So, she enlisted in the United States Navy. “After boot camp in Chicago and additional training in Meridian, Mississippi, I was stationed in Yokosuka, Japan on board the naval destroyer USS O'Brien DD-975,” Mrs. Nielsen said. “This is where I met my future husband who introduced me to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Later, I was stationed at the Fleet and Industrial Supply Center (FISC) where I provided supply support for naval submarines. I joined the Church on Feb 18, 2001. After 3 years in Japan, we moved to Virginia where I finished my naval career stationed on the USS Ross DDG-71 out of Naval Base Norfolk, Virginia.”
“While traveling the world with the Navy, I discovered my fascination with meeting new people, seeing new places, eating foods I never even knew existed – and serving. During my 20-year membership with the Church, I have volunteered in numerous positions. But, serving within the young women's organization has always been close to my heart. I have been in the company of bold women of faith who have inspired me to proudly share my story as a Latina immigrant, a veteran and a woman of faith.”
“I also love going to work each day with super talented individuals at the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce who work incredibly hard to make Chattanooga the best place to live,” Mrs. Nielsen continued. “It’s a privilege to get to know the people of Chattanooga better and I look forward to proudly serving as the JustServe specialist, too. Anyone can give volunteer service where they live. Sign up today at https://www.justserve.org.”